I think from reading the article the cities aim to create an environment that is more woodsy (more earth) and less cement, creating small parks with the city.

Our house is surrounded by massive oaks and maples. We planted birch, crab apple, dogwood, pear, Japanese maple and many flowering shrubs for the pollinators. It's fall and we are ankle deep in leaves, most will be mulched. I love the crunchy sound my feet make walking around the yard.